The Episcopal City Deanery (ECD) organized a Training Program on Basic Christian
Community (BEC) on 2nd October 2025 at the Platinum Jubilee Hall of St. Sebastian Church,
Bendur. The program was designed to deepen the understanding of community living and to
empower leaders and members to play an active role in strengthening BECs in their respective
parishes.
The training, held from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., drew an overwhelming response, with the
participation of more than 200 members representing the 11 parishes of the Deanery.
The inaugural ceremony set the tone for the evening. The program was graced by the presence
of Fr. Sunil D’Souza, Diocesan Director of BEC, and V. Rev. Fr. Bonaventure Nazareth,
Vicar General of the Diocese. In their inspiring addresses, both highlighted the importance

of community life in the Church and stressed the urgency of building stronger, Gospel-
centered communities to face the challenges of the modern world.

The resource sessions that followed were highly enriching.

• Mr. William Colaso, an experienced trainer, spoke on the theme “Service: Door to
  Heaven”. He emphasized that true discipleship lies in selfless service, drawing
  examples from everyday Christian living.
• Mrs. Asha Monteiro, Diocesan BCC Secretary, led the second session on “Deeper
  Understanding of Gospel Sharing”. Her talk provided participants with practical tools
  and insights on how Gospel-sharing groups can bring transformation at the grassroots
  level, making parishes more vibrant and faith-driven.
  To keep the participants engaged and enthusiastic, the CAL Youth conducted lively action
  songs that added joy and energy to the program while also underlining the spirit of unity and
  fellowship.
  The training was meticulously planned and coordinated by the Deanery BEC Committee
  under the leadership of Fr. Walter D’Souza – Deanery BEC Director, Mrs. Ida Pinto –
  Deanery Secretary, Mrs. Mavis Rodrigues – BEC Parish Convener, Bendur
  The smooth flow of the sessions was ensured with efficient anchoring by Mrs. Ida Sequeira,
  BEC Parish Convener, Milagres Parish. A warm welcome was extended by Mrs. Ida Pinto,

and the vote of thanks was proposed by Mrs. Jenitha Maria Fernandes, who expressed
heartfelt gratitude to all resource persons, organizers, volunteers, and participants.
The program concluded with a fellowship meal lovingly prepared and served by the BEC
Commission of Bendur Parish. This shared meal not only satisfied physical hunger but also
strengthened bonds of friendship and fraternity among the participants.
The day proved to be a memorable milestone in the journey of strengthening Basic
Christian Communities. Participants left enriched with new knowledge, motivated to practice
Gospel values, and committed to nurturing vibrant parish communities where faith, service,
and fellowship thrive.